Draft legislation proposes consolidating programs under a renamed Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity, but critics say the agency already has a spotty track record on invasive species.

High vacancy rates, particularly in key leadership positions, have cast doubt over the department's ability to strengthen protections against invasive species.

The department has included bottled water in its accounting for locally produced food.

鈥淭his is workable but it鈥檚 only the beginning,鈥� one advocate said as the Legislature prepares to consider the details.

Bird flu has been found in dairy cows in 16 states and in more than 60 humans on the mainland so far this year.

The hemp industry says CBD products are vital to its survival, and suggests limiting sales to people 21 and older.

Communities and government need to collaborate better, and disasters laid the problems bare, summit attendees told.

Lawmakers are considering creating an agricultural crime commission and other measures to bolster laws that apply to agricultural theft, vandalism and trespass. 

Local chickens are in good health -- but they face a potential threat.

Upgrading aging infrastructure is key to agriculture's future in Hawaii, but there are also safety concerns.